I was at the doctor’s office the other day getting my finger checked out. Yes, the one that I broke in two places, playing catch with the football. Call me old, call me whatever you like. I deserve it.
Anyway, I was sitting there waiting to be called, as I watched a patient walk up to the lady at the desk and complain about her name being spelled wrong on the form that she was given. Another patient walked up and complained about being charged for this visit, she claimed it was supposed to be no charge. The poor little lady behind the desk, tried her best to explain the co-pay procedure. After her, was a third patient who walked up and began to complain because her insurance was not being handled properly.
I watched the response of the little lady behind the desk. None of this was her fault, but she was sure being blamed for it all.
I knew that she was getting unnerved and overwhelmed. So I decided to make an attempt to lighten the mood and stop the flow of complaints. I walked up to the counter and began to tell her what a great job she was doing. I told her that this day was going to end and there would be a new day tomorrow. “Don’t let others problems ruin your day,” I told her. I saw a big smile come over her face and it was as if the heaviness of all those complaints just melted right off of her.
Galatians 6:10 “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people.”
I could have sat quietly and minded my own business. But instead, I took the initiative to change the mood.
As you have the opportunity, take the initiative to make someone’s day. The word of the day is initiative.